Explore South Carolina

Retiring in South Carolina Overview - One of the Best States to Retire

In recent years, South Carolina has become an extremely popular state for retirees. The mild weather, tax friendliness (including a state sales tax break just for seniors), abundance of recreational activities, low cost of living, and vibrant culture has many retirees wondering why they didn't relocate to the state sooner. South Carolina is broken up into five geographical regions: Mountains, Piedmont, Sandhills, Coastal Plain, and Coastal Zone. The vast difference in geographies throughout the state ensure that unique needs of any retiree should be met, and even exceeded. The state's access to the Blue Ridge Mountains provides for excellent outdoor hiking and other activities, while visitors and residents alike are infatuated with the beautiful white sand beaches of the Carolina coastline. Check out some of the best places to retire in South Carolina below to see even more about what the state has to offer.

Best Retirement State Facts

Demographics

Median Age:

37.9

Percent of people 65+:

15.2%

Median Household Income:

$ 44,779

Unemployment Rate:

6.6%

Geography

Region:

Southeast

Capital:

Columbia

Largest City:

Columbia

Largest City:

Charleston

Fun Facts

Nick Name:

Palmetto State

State Mammal:

White Tailed Deer

State Food:

Peach

State Song:

"Carolina"

Other cities, including low cost retirement places to live in South Carolina